He did not reply—he could not speak; but he raised the hand she extended to his lips, and turned toward the window.
"Oh, thank Heaven—thank Heaven for this!" cried Christie, exultingly. "Now I can die in peace."
There was a low rap at the door. Captain Campbell opened it, and Laura Courtney, pale, wild and excited, entered.
"Mrs. Courtney! you here?" exclaimed Mr. Brantwell, in surprise.
"Oh, Mr. Brantwell, Edgar is dying—the doctor says so; and he is raving and saying the most frightful things. He wants to see Captain Campbell and his sister immediately."
"Me!" said Sibyl. "What can he want with me?"
"Oh, I do not know. He is saying such dreadful things! Come with me," said Mrs. Courtney, catching Sibyl's arm in a wild, terrified way and drawing her from the room.
Mr. Brantwell, Willard, and his dying girl-wife were left alone.
"I want to see Aunt Tom and Carl," said Christie, faintly. "Do you know where they are to be found?"
"They are on the island," said Mr. Brantwell, "and consequently have not heard of your arrival here. I will send a messenger over for them, if you wish."